How are USACO finalists selected?

To be selected as a finalist, you must excel in your participation in USACO web-based contests through the year. The coaches may drop one contest when averaging scores and determining trends, but a student who misses several contests is less likely to be chosen.

What is USACO finalist?

Selected for their outstanding performance on USACO contests throughout the 2019-2020 season, these top pre-college computer science students will be participating in the USACO 2020 summer training camp, where they will be challenged by advanced instructional material provided by the USACO staff.

How important is USACO for college?

USACO can improve your application into any college. If you happen to have an interest in computer science or programming languages, the USA Computing Olympiad (USACO) might be the choice for you.

Can college students participate in USACO?

Eligibility and Participation All are welcome to participate in USACO contests and training. Only pre-college students in the USA are eligible for selection as finalists to attend the USACO training camp and to contend for membership on the USA IOI team.

Should I add USACO to my college application?

I have corresponded a bit in the past with college admissions officers asking about our participants. The short answer is yes, USACO participation is indeed something that is viewed quite positively. If you’ve invested a lot of time in it, and/or are interested in pursuing computer science further in college, you should add it.

What are the different levels of competition in USACO?

USACO has four divisions of competition, Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum. All competitors start in the Bronze division. After each contest weekend, you may be “promoted” to the next level with a sufficiently high score – usually getting about 600-800 out of 1000.

What is this USACO guide for?

Topics on this guide reflect past problems, not future problems. This guide is written by top USACO contestants, including two-time IOI winner and USACO Problemsetter Benjamin Qi. This guide is targeted towards all contestants, regardless of their division. You’ll find problems suitable for you. Stop wasting time learning topics you already know.

How do I sign up for a USACO contest?

USACO is completely free and open to anyone. Just sign up for an account and do some practice, and you’re ready to go. What is the timing format of the contest? Any time during the contest weekend, go to the website and click the button to start your personal contest timer of 3-5 hours.